Project Summary In this R13 application, we are requesting support for the European Behavioral Pharmacology Society (EBPS) 2024 workshop, “Novel Pharmacotherapies for Substance Use Disorders: From Basic Science to Societal Implications”, taking place September 25-27, 2024 in Banff, Alberta, Canada. The goal of this 3-day event is to bring together international experts in basic and clinical science who focus on novel pharmacology-based interventions within the domain of substance use disorders (SUDs). We will pursue the following four specific aims at the meeting: 1) create an international forum for leading basic and clinical SUD researchers to discuss cutting edge pharmacology-based SUD interventions; 2) facilitate discussion of factors “outside the lab” that can impact the implementation and/or efficacy of these interventions in the real world; 3) promote interaction among diverse groups of investigators to stimulate exchange of ideas that will define the future directions of SUD research; 4) to foster the development of the next generation of SUD researchers by encouraging the participation of students, postdoctoral fellows, and new investigators committed to SUD research. The scope of the keynote and symposia will be confined to basic and clinical studies involving pharmacology- based interventions that show promise in the treatment of SUDs, including cannabinoids, psychedelics, and neuropeptides. The content of these will range from cellular and molecular mechanisms to preliminary clinical efficacy, in an effort to highlight the value of translational science. The meeting will also include panels on “outside the lab” factors that may impact the effective implementation of these interventions, consisting of experts in public policy, regulatory frameworks, medical journalism, and clinical ethics. Further interactions will take form of Data Blitz and Hot Topics sessions, poster sessions, and ample discussion time. This conference setup differs from that of many others in the field and will provide a unique opportunity for close interactions among investigators at all stages of their careers. We chose an inclusive venue that hosts conference space, accommodations, and dining options to provide abundant opportunity for networking. We have aimed for a diverse lineup of invited speakers and will strive to promote meeting access (i.e., via travel awards and waived registration) to individuals from historically marginalized populations. We believe that this meeting will drive advances in novel pharmacotherapeutics for SUD treatments at a critical time in regards to the need of novel SUD treatment options on the backdrop of changes in regulatory access to many of these compounds.

Project Narrative The 2024 European Behavioral Pharmacology Society workshop on Novel Pharmacotherapies for Substance Use Disorders: From Basic Science to Societal Implications will take place September 25-27, 2024 in Banff, Alberta, Canada. This meeting of around 150 international attendees will include cutting edge basic and preclinical science, and discussions of potential societal, ethical, and policy implications of new pharmacological interventions.